Improving help for adolescents with self-harm or stressful childhood
Suicide is the second leading cause of death in young people aged between 15 and 29 worldwide (WHO, 2019). In Singapore, the number of reported suicide cases rose by 10 percent in 2018 and the suicide rate has risen to 8.36 deaths per 100,000 Singapore residents, with the highest suicide mortality among adolescents (SOS, 2019). Adolescents who are exposed to adverse early-life interpersonal stress, such as maltreatment, may experience various effects, such as impaired development, emotional regulation, stress coping ability, etc. Studies have also shown that such effects last through adulthood and may increase the risk of self-harm behaviours.
What is SICS doing to help?
At SICS, we recognise the need to improve current clinical risk assessments and screening, so that we may identify and provide more timely help for these vulnerable individuals. Our research study uses an innovative mix of neurobiological and social measures to develop a more comprehensive model and advanced knowledge in this field.
To find out more, email us at transneuro@sics.a-star.edu.sg, contact us at 6291 3672, or simply fill in the form below.